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SPECIAL FEATURE in need. "The GVFB provides healthy food to people living in Vancouver, Burnaby, the North Shore and New Westminster," he says. "We also support 150+ local, non-profit orga- nizations that provide various food security programs within their communities, as well as other provincial food banks." The GVFB is BC's largest food bank and provider of fresh food to people suffering from food insecurity. It supports 15,000 monthly clients, 14% of which are seniors and 28% of which are children. "In our last fiscal year, the GVFB distributed 8.9 million pounds of food to the communities we serve," Douglas says. "During that same period, we also registered over 7,000 new clients." GVFB provides four nutritional program packs for vulnerable age groups, including babies, toddlers, school age children and seniors. Baby Steps includes formula, baby food, baby snacks and cereal for babies from birth to 12-months-old; eggs, cereal, milk, cheese and fruits for babies from 13 to 24-months-old or diapers for children up to 36-months-old. The Preschooler and Grade Schooler Packs offer highly nutritious, age-appropri- ate food for 2 – 12-year-olds that are high in iron and protein to promote brain and muscle development; and the Seniors Pack includes a healthy mix of age-appropriate food for 65+ year-olds that is rich in vitamins and minerals, including lean proteins, whole- grain bread, cheese, nu- trition shakes, bok choy, bananas and more. "We receive no recurring government funding and exist solely through the gen- erosity of the public, our industry part- ners and applicable grants," Douglas says. "Leaving a legacy gift to the GVFB is more than a monetary gift. It means a legacy of health and wellness in the community by ensuring the food bank's ability to provide fresh, healthy food to people in need, from babies to seniors." Whether you're making a monthly do- nation, leaving a legacy gift or organizing a Virtual Food Drive, there are many ways you can support the GVFB. For those who want their giving to be their legacy, GVFB offers a legacy giving program, which includes assis- tance in preparing a will to ensure donors' wishes are carried out exactly as they intend and that their loved ones and friends will be cared for. Visit foodbank.bc.ca/ways- to-give/legacy-giving to learn more. ARTHRITIS RESEARCH CANADA Arthritis is serious and life-threatening and affects over six million Canadians of all ages. Arthritis Research Canada is the largest clinical arthritis research centre in North America, conducting over 100 innovative studies aimed at preventing arthritis, facilitating early diagnosis, finding new and better treatments, and improving quality of life for people living with 100 different types of this disease. "Our mission is to transform the lives of people impacted by arthritis through patient-centred research and engagement, and our vision is a world where people living with arthritis can thrive," says Patti Nakatsu, director of development for Arthri- tis Canada. "Patient partners are involved in all aspects of our research, ensuring our findings and programs meet the needs of those directly impacted by arthritis." Arthritis is often considered an older person's disease, yet it can strike at any age. In fact, half of those diagnosed with this disease are under the age of 65. Arthritis Research Canada is investigating ways to prevent life-threatening complications caused by arthritis, such as heart attacks, strokes, hip fractures and blood clots. "We are leveraging technology and creat- ing digital tools to help with the day-to-day management of arthri- tis, reducing health inequities so everyone can receive the best care available, and so much more," Nakatsu says. "We prioritize practical solutions that empower people to overcome the daily challenges of arthritis— helping them stay active, succeed in their ca- reer and education goals, enjoy restful sleep, maintain mental well-being, and cherish time with loved ones." Donor support fuels discovery and helps Arthritis Research Canada find answers so millions of Canadians can live well. Wills are powerful tools, and legacy donations often allow people to leave a larger gift than they ever thought possible. "A legacy gift is an excellent way for people to continue to support Arthritis Research Canada and to have a lasting impact for generations to come," Nakatsu says. "The number of Canadians with arthritis is M A K E A D I F F E R E N C E " Our mission is to transform the lives of people impacted by arthritis through patient- centred research and engagement, and our vision is a world where people living with arthritis can thrive. Patient partners are involved in all aspects of our research, ensuring our findings and programs meet the needs of those directly impacted by arthritis." –PATTI NAKATSU, director, development for Arthritis Canada Arthritis Research Canada